THE Health Ministry (MOH) will seek further information from the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding a fatal bacterial infection, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), which is currently on the rise in Japan.
According to a report by the Straits Times on Tuesday (June 18), Japan has seen STSS cases surpass 1,000 in 2024.
Data from the country’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) shows that as of June 9, the preliminary number of cases this year has reached 1,019. This marks a significant increase in the spread of the infection compared to previous years.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that no information about STSS has yet been relayed to the ministry’s crisis preparedness and response centre or infection division.
“Honestly speaking, we have yet to obtain any information or developments (on STSS). It is crucial that we seek input from WHO. Once we have the update, we will take the necessary steps,” he told a press conference here.
Dr Dzulkefly was responding to questions about preventive measures to contain STSS, which could potentially be brought to Malaysia by tourists.
STSS develops when streptococcal bacteria gain access to deep tissues and the bloodstream, posing a life-threatening risk. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, and vomiting.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, experts have yet to determine how the bacteria enter the body in nearly half of the cases of STSS. – June 20, 2024
